The beach, the boardwalk and the sunshine vibe are all part of the famous Venice Beach area. This coastal California town is synonymous with a picture perfect beach day and a party night. We list the best bars in Venice to visit at the end of a day surfing or sunbathing.
The Brig
Bar, Pub Grub, $$$
Located on Abbot Kinney Blvd, The Brig offers a mix of dancing, nightly DJs, and pool. It’s easy to see why this bar has been a local favorite for over 60 years. The bar draws an eclectic blend of people during happy hours then picks up later in the evening with throngs of youthful crowds that keep it bursting with energy all night long. After a couple of brews, head outside to the lot for late night munchies at the food trucks; everything from Kogi to Downtown Dogs.
The Venice Ale House is located on the boardwalk itself, so the views are plentiful at this enticing location. Known for its high quality, rotating selection of locally sourced craft beers and organic food, this bar is great for the community and your taste buds. Started by two Venice locals, the goal is delicious, sustainable food options that lessen environmental impact. The bar offers the perfect selection of beers, wines, cocktail, and vegan options at any time of day. The place can get packed when the sun is out, but it is definitely worth the wait!
Since 1962, Hinano Café has been serving legendary burgers and cold beers that hit the spot after a hot day at the beach. Located just steps from the pier, this dive bar offers a jukebox, pool tables, and free popcorn, inviting newcomers into the local scene. The bar features 16 drafts on tap as well as nitrogen beers. Fun fact: the bar is also infamously known as Jim Morrison’s favorite Venice watering hole. Live bands and plenty of televisions to catch a game on make this beer and wine hot spot a must-visit. Cash only.
Boasting the title of oldest bar in Venice, it’s no surprise that Townhouse also holds the title as one of the finest. Be sure to try one of the shaken cocktails, or try one of the bar cocktails on tap. One ‘old fashioned’ and you’ll feel transported back to the Prohibition era, which makes it a perfect time to head to the downstairs performance space, a place that was actually a true speakeasy back in the 1920s. Today the space serves as live entertainment venue with a variety of performances including live music, comedy, and even burlesque.
Cerveteca serves food with a blend of Latin and Peruvian flavors creating traditional favorites and a menu that embodies Los Angeles. The bar offers a wide array of cold beers that range from Latin to Belgian to Japanese imported beers. Stop in for a cocktail or cold brew and stay for the good conversation.
The Other Room on the famed Abbott Kinney Blvd opens its windows when it’s nice out to let folks enjoy the high quality buzz the street has to offer. A long list of wines and beer lends itself to a bar where people come to hang with friends and meet new ones. Have the bartender pour you a chilled glass of bubbly and sit down to celebrate this Venice staple.
Signature cocktails and incredible, panoramic views of the Pacific are the standard at High Rooftop Lounge. As the only rooftop bar in Venice this bar, located on top of the Hotel Erwin, features breathtaking sights of the beach along with relaxed ambience. Though it’s hard to think anything could compete with 365 degree views, the enormous cocktail list just might give them a run for their money. Stop in for a ‘High Tide’ or ‘Ocean Breeze’ cocktail, while experiencing the breeze of the incomparable Venice Beach.
Barrique is full of dim lighting and tables made out of wine crates that give this new bar a romantic edge. Not only is there delicious Italian food, but the wine list is almost daunting with a great selection of Italian whites, French reds, and sparkling champagne. Not a connoisseur? Don’t worry; the helpful staff is more than happy to help pick a wine selection that will pair well with your food.
Located half a block from Venice Beach, James’ Beach has an indoor/outdoor patio and a cabana bar and is a breezy local favorite. The bar has also played host to a number of films and television shows including: I Love You Man, Californication,and Curb Your Enthusiasm. Make sure you stop by for the legendary ‘Mahi Mahi’ tacos or a drink from an extensive list of beers and cocktails.
After a day of sun and sand, take a few steps from the beach and you’ll be at the landmark Venice Whaler. Visited by The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and The Doors, it is easy to see why this bar also keeps the residents of Venice coming back. Sit down to enjoy the sunset with an assortment of cocktails and drinks such as the ‘Moscow Whale’ or ‘Tequila Mockingbird.’ After the sunset, head down stairs to the Crab Shell Bar for some live entertainment. Each night offers a different genre of music; be sure to go on Monday for karaoke to grab a turn at the mic.
Not in the mood to deal with big crowds? Come to the cozy wine bar South End, tucked away on Abbot Kinney and a great place to grab a glass of wine and share a pizza. The Neapolitan-style pizzas are served with crisp, thin bases, and there’s a wide variety of options. The impressive wine list features selections from all over the world.
